Instability in the economy crimps Easter celebration

Easter celebration this year is at an all time low. This is as a result of falling Naira compounded by a spiraling slide in the prices of petroleum products at the international market which has created a debacle of sort for an average Nigerian who has to make do with his meager resources to fend for his family in the midst of these crises in the economy.

Easter, a most important holiday and festivity widely observed by Christians around the world to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ usually falls between March 22 and April 25 every year. This year’s celebration will be unusual due to general level in the economy which has reduced disposal income of Nigerians.

BDSUNDAY findings revealed a mixed grill feeling as many Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet due to prices of commodities in various markets across the country which has witnessed drastic changes leaving Nigerians with the only viable option of prioritizing or drawing up a scale of preference. This means that most families may need to drop purchase of goods that can be classified as conspicuous pleasure in favour of the necessary such as rice, garri, tomatoes, pepper and other perishable food items.

Nigerians who spoke with BDSUNDAY are indifferent about the Easter celebration. While some said they have low-key plans others say the celebration is the least of their worries.

“I was not paid salary today (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday) is public holiday. So, no money this Easter and I don’t know what to do. If I tell my family that I don’t have money, they will think I hid it somewhere. I have not even paid the fees of my two children which is almost N150,000, Easter is not that important on my mind now’, Clem Iwuanyanwu, a staff of Eko Distribution Company explained.

Philip Mebo who resides in Berger area of Lagos state had to press pause on his plans for the season owing to scarcity of petroleum products in the country.

“The economic situation is taking a toll on everyone. I was at the filling station for hours yet couldn’t get any fuel. I’ve parked my car for two days now. I had to abort my original plan to travel”, Mebo lamented.

“I am not making much preparation as salary and allowances are yet to be paid. I will only do social things with little cash on me with my family. No outing, I will be indoors and eat whatever I can afford. This is the change we voted for, so let us endure it while it lasts ’, Okunade Adekunle, another resident in Lagos adds.

Tony Ugwu, a banker in Lagos who was visibly angry said celebrating Easter this period when the country is going through tough times is a waste of resources.

 “I quarreled with my wife this morning. Can you imagine? She told me to bring N10, 000 for Easter. I asked her, what for? I had to shut her down because I don’t have that kind of money to waste now on just Easter. Things are very difficult right now”, Ugwu fumed.

But its different strokes for different folks as some are not deterred by the prevalent economic challenges; they insist that nothing will prevent them from making a special day as Easter a memorable one.

“No matter how tough things are, Nigerians will always celebrate when it comes to festivity periods. So, no money or dollar exchange will stop us even with all the complaints. People are still doing last minute shopping in the market and the rush is huge. I and my family are going to enjoy every bit of the season both indoors and outdoors”, Amenaghawon Okao, a resident in Calabar stated.

Amaechi Okafor, a businessman in Jos said, “Easter is a period to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus so I’m following the church activities keenly. I will do the needful to make my loved ones and others happy with the little resources I have I will do little shopping for food items and drinks, and then, spend a good time reflecting on the hope made available to us by our risen savior”.

As Christians around the world mark this Easter celebrations today, Nigerians should put aside their daily troubles and focus solely on the significance of this season which comes once in a year.